MIC mission news, 1 janvier 1997, Janvier - Février

MIC Mission News JANUARY-FEBRUARY 1997 Directress: Louise Denis, M.I.C.Editor: Ma.Anthea Raso, M.I.C.Members, Editorial Team: Micheline Marcoux, M.I.C.Céline Gauvin, M.I.C.Helene Labelle, M.I.C.Lorette Moran, M.I.C.Special Contributor: Christian Beaulieu Secretary: Christine Desrochers Accounting: Pâquerette Gauthier, M.I.C.Promotion: Alice Mills, M.I.C.M.I.C.and Lay Team Circulation: Véronique Bernatchez, M.I.C.M.I.C.and Lay Team Translator: Antoinette Kinlough Infographist: Christiane Beaulieu Film Stripping: Film-O-Progrès, Inc.Printing: Transcontinental Inc.Subscription: Support: $ 8 I year $ 10 $ 15 2 years $20 $23 3 years $ 30 $15 1 year USA and other Countries Tax Receipt: Registration number: 0940007-47 PRESSE MISSIONNAIRE M.I.C.Change of Address: Please send your old and your new addresses.When renewing subscription, include file number.Address: MIC MISSION NEWS P.O.Box 157 Stn Laval-des-Rapides Laval, Qc Canada H7N4Z4 Telephone: (514) 663-6460 Fax Number: (514)663-1522 Issued: January 1997 Publication Mail: Registration No.0358 ISSN 0315-9655 Member: Association of Roman Catholic Communicators of Canada (ARCCC) Cover Page: Somalia - Beyond words.French soldier and Somalian child Photo: O.Moës Center Pages: Malawi - Yvonne, Theresa and Emmanuel in Chipata Photo: L Long, M.I.C.BIMONTHLY MISSION MAGAZINE PUBLISHED BY THE MISSIONARY SISTERS OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION VOL.24, N0.1 • JANUARY-FEBRUARY 1997 -j CONTENTS /- 3 Editorial: Harbingers of Hope 4 The Media: For Peace and Unity Among Peoples 8 The Media and the Prociamation of the Word lO A Seed.in Rwandan Soil 14 On the Roads of the Mission 16 Give Us Day By Day the Bread We Need 18 Missionaries of the Gospel 19 Because of a Simple Gesture.20 In Communion With the Malagasy People 22 Word and Life: Discovering the Hidden Gift 24 Our Father 26 In God's Garden 28 Intermissions 30 Interaction 32 Nurturing Hope 2 HBBBBBBnaBBSBBHBBESBHBBHBBBBIHHnBBnBBBHHninSSSSB EDITOQIAL wbingers of Hope I* veryday the media fills our minds and thoughts I ^ with injustices present in our country and in our world.Among many other issues, we read about poor education, inadequate health care, unjust working conditions and deteriorating family values.International news headlines never fail to bring our attention to peoples at war, along with those taking risks for ^«11 peace.Yet at times, the feeling of being over-JM| whelmed by one issue can prevent us from * T1 responding in any way at all.Miimo nmk The Church's pastoral instruction on social communications, Aetatis Novae -“Dawn of a New Era” - continually reminds us that "it is part of the human vocation to live out the ongoing, unlimited communication of God's reconciling love in creative new ways".We are to do this through words of hope and deeds of love, that is, through our very way of life.As communicators, our mission is to bring words of hope to those in need of it.It is through dialogue that we come to deeper understanding and it is in communicating honestly that our hearts are transformed.Opportunities of being messengers of hope abound.the simplest gestures of caring, or expressions of gratitude are precious affirmations of the gifts that lie hidden within and around us, waiting to be discovered! A deeper understanding of communication as a way toward communion can bring us to discover that more than the expression of ideas and the indication of emotion, communication is the giving of self in love.We will come to appreciate more and more our ability to communicate feelings, thoughts and desires to another as integral to daily living.And together, we can give thanks to God, our Father, for helping us share with others the manifold gifts we receive from Him each day.The task that is there to do is not ours alone.It is a commitment we undertake in the company of dedicated men and women from around the globe.There are people, Churches, organizations, and net-works working for positive change in every region of the world.Besides being communicators, these people are committed to certain values - they are in 12,483 M Search of a global community that protects and furthers human dignity, one that encourages peace, justice and solidarity.The Gospel parable of the sower shows valuable insight into the different responses to good news.and ultimately, to the Good News.God freely gives His word, but it is up to us as to how it will grow and yield fruit.The choice to make, the direction to take, are left to us.To nurture the word of God, to discern and interpret correctly the signs of our times, we need to listen and be led by His Spirit.There is an inherent need inside each of us to tell our stories and share our good news.In turn, others have a story to tell.We are surrounded by committed believers who, in their everyday lives are loud and clear messengers of goodness and faith, sowing and nurturing seeds of hope in countless ways.It is a privilege to present some of their stories in this issue.?Ma.Anthea Raso, M.l.C.3 / AUSTQIA I The media are a part of our universe and every day, in the news, we are served live images of the world scene in which violence and peace co-exist side by side.In September 1995, more than 800 professionals of the media from 104 countries gathered in Graz, Austria, for the Congress of the International Catholic Union of the Press; they pondered on the theme: "Ethics of Peace in a World of Violence".In his introductory address, Cardinal Carlo Maria Martini, Archbishop of Milan, presented three images taken from the Bible to bring to light the roots of violence and to reflect on the role of the "media for peace and unify among nations", not to forget the challenges which communicators must face.We present here a few excerpts of the third part of his address: The parable of the sower.* You also know better than I do that an ethic of peace in a world of violence does not depend only on individual good will.We are faced with and conditioned by social and political, even global systems.The remedies are to be sought not only in the good will of individuals, but above all in a joint effort of all communicators of good will.(.) It is not for me to go into the details of this heavy task, but rather to point a source of inspiration for its accomplishment.This source may be found in the parable of the sower who went out to sow the seed, as Jesus tells us in the Gospel: "some seeds fell on the edge of the path, others fell on patches of rock, others among thorns, others in rich soil" (Mt 13:3-8).sr ¦m w The Parable of the Sower Reading this parable in the context of communication, one could be tempted to interpret the different types of unsuitable soil in which the seed fell in terms of media-related symbols, as well as meanings.This would be one way to denounce the distortions of information.The path along which the seed fell would therefore symbolize the ephemeral, passing nature of information quickly given and just as quickly forgotten, inconsistent, frivolous, trivial information rapidly submerged by other, different and, at times, even contrary information.No solid purpose is achieved by this type of information.The rocky ground on which the seed grows at once ^ ü V would be the seeking of an immediate effect, of sensa-# if li tion created at the expense of exact information.The thorns would thus be a metaphoric description of good will that underestimates its own strength and the goal at stake, which is responsible information: news that tangle with "tricky" problems and issues without the necessary preparation or the necessary competence.One could thus examine the symbolic content of other aspects of the parable, but I shall focus on two major metaphors: the character of the sower and the symbol of rich soil.a rir The Character of the Sower It seems to me that the character of the sower contains, first of all, an icon of the communicator faced with the problem of violence in the press.He wonders what he could do in 3 V A •*;" .4 [UqH '¦si! '.V *i.« m m* his individual responsibility.What can each of us do to take a fair stand on this complex, disconcerting and tragic problem?Above all, the sower of the Gospel story is someone who is sure that the seed he sows is good seed.He knows that the good seed of peace is better than any seed of hatred and violence.He is a believer in peace and understanding between individuals and between nations.He is sure of what he is doing, even if his intent is not shared by those with whom he works.He sows with constancy and perseverance the seed of mutual understanding and agreement.He is not afraid to talk about the many manifestations of violence that take place in the world, but he seeks to bring to light their causes, to show their roots in the present and in the past.He studies possible remedies and helps men and women of peace and good will not to get discouraged in their efforts.How then can one sow the good seed of peace?What is the good seed that must be sown?For a Christian, the beatitudes of the Gospel are the good seed.It is not necessary to mention them explicitly.They exist in every day life.The Holy Spirit pours them into daily realities, even in places beset by violence.One only needs to recall a multitude of episodes and sjf,i manifestations of kindness, forgiveness and solidarity which have developed in the course of conflicts such as those in the former Yugoslavia, or in Africa, in Rwanda and Burundi.If violence is a part of reality, so also are the Gospel beatitudes a part of reality: one must have eyes to see it and a hand and a tongue to describe it.Secondly, the sower spoken of in the Gospel is someone who acts without wanting to check immediately on the results of his action.He knows that he is sowing for the future and that someone will reap the harvest.As Jesus said in the Gospel of Saint John, "one sows, another one reaps.Others worked for it and you have come into the rewards of their trouble" (Jn 4:37).This means for you that you must sow in hope and patience, i.e.oppose the violence exerted in the media without expecting to reap the fruits of your action.Information that deals with violence in a proper and critical way describing its manifestations inasmuch as necessary to inform the public, but without overstating its significance, trying to point out the causes and the remedies, is bound to prevail on the long run over an intoxicated kind of information which inflates the truth and plays on the excitement and feelings of horror and vengeance.Thus any effort not only to represent violence, but also to explain its deep-seated roots, its psychological and historic causes and, by the same token, its remedies may, at first, seem less interesting than the mere description of an act of violence.But on the long run, this effort may help to awaken the minds of readers and listeners wishing to understand and not to tr 5 Communication at the Service of the Person* Communication tf Lord, at the 'tight of all thoée communication media which are available to the men and women of today'v world, I marvel and give thanks.Blevved are You for the gift of intellect placed in tho- KIYt T*1 -.v Zaire - A feastday for children proves a good remedy to offset a difficult situation.12 Photo: A.Durand, M.I.C. J if ' ¦' Step by Step, Gehing to Fit into the Group I walked with him for three weeks.The first two weeks, we walked one hour in the morning and one hour in the evening.Then I began to space out the walks, maintaining the evening hour because I wanted him not to need any medication to go to sleep.One afternoon, he came to see me and said: "Do you want us to go for a walk?" - "You see that I am busy with this little one.Would you go alone and take the walk we usually take together, then come and see me afterwards." I had noticed that he took an interest in younger children.So then he ran, perspired and came back saying: "I went around by myself I did not see anyone and I was not afraid." Etienne finally came out of it, even if at first he had trouble concentrating.But I followed his every step, every means he could use: walking, dancing, etc.He opened up a lot with the smaller children and would come and tell me about it.Sometimes he would go and walk with the little ones, holding them by the hand.He would do with the others what I had done with him.I don't know if his purpose was the same as mine.At any rate he would go out and come back and tell me: "I walked with Antoine, I walked with femme".Then he would consider that he had walked while holding the hand of a child smaller than himself.He has now opened up, gone back to school and even came out fifth in his class." An Expressed Wish A Rwandan Student of IFHIM comments: "There are in Rwanda thousands of children like Anastasia and Etienne, even adults who are traumatized.How many Godebertas do we have?Not everyone can benefit of a training at IFHIM, but those who do should become multipliers so that in every corner of the country the richness hidden in the hearts of the Rwandan people may bring about better life conditions." ?Zaire - In May '96, Archbishop Christophe Munzihirwa Mwene Ngabo of Bukavu ordained as deacon Joachim Pons, S.J., member of the Jesuit Refugee Service working in the camps.Archbishop Munzihirwa was assasinated on October 29, 1996.Return from (Bukavu Since July 1995, Sr.Agathe Durand, of Montreal, had been working with an international IFHIM team on a similar project among adults and children in Rwandan refugee camps of Zaire, near the Rwandan border.The media have enabled us to follow day by day the tragic situation currently developing in this African region.As this issue of our magazine is near completion, Sr.Agathe has returned to Canada on an emergency evacuation flight.We received from her the following details: Being in Bukavu, Zaire, the epicenter of an active guerilla, Sr.Agathe and her companions had to be evacuated in November along with many others.Mission unfinished.They continued as Zaire - Sr.Agathe Durand at Camp Adi Kivu - Rwandan children receive "valentines" from Quebec children.long as they possibly could.Those they left behind have journeyed in personal growth and become capable and committed multipliers, able to continue on their own way among their peers.They have emerged from despair, come to face their fear with openness rather than hostility; they have changed their educational approach for the benefit of the children.There was still a great deal for them to do.The needs were increasing with the displacement of thousands of refugees from Uvira.There was a flood of new arrivals, terrified, pushing forward in an obstinate march towards life, towards hope against hope.The mission has continued to develop.Hundreds of refugees have followed a formation programme in the actualization of human vital energies.Learning techniques of "personal reconstruction" lived under guidance, integrating this new knowledge through the actual experience of these people, together with their own resourcefulness cannot but bear fruit, bring forth love and build peace in that very place where hostility seemed, for a time, to be invincible.?Editorial Staff 13 MALAWI / ZAMBIA THE Qx>Cuts of the s^\tiSsC(M by Agathe Durand, M.I.C.To commune with the realities of other people requires a quality of insight and attention to their lived experience.During a short vacation which she spent among the M.I.C.Sisters of Malawi and Zambia, Sr.Agathe Durand, then in service in Rwandan refugee camps of Zaire, relates with a sense of wonder the ministry of Sr.Pauline Brodeur, a missionary in Zambia.She describes Sr.Pauline's unique contribution on the roads of the mission of Jesus.A three-week vacation! After one year in the Rwandan camps of Suth Kivu, Zaire, I dreamt of a vacation among the M.I.C.Sisters of Malawi and Zambia.Of knowing another Africa! Of resting, forgetting for a while the turbulence of my mission and disposing myself for another year of service in the "reconstruction of people, of children"! After hopping to five different airports, I finally landed in Lilongwe.An M.I.C.waved to me! My heart was already on the loose: I was no longer a stranger here.Yet, I had never set foot in Malawi! In this foreign country, I experienced the joy of seeing familiar faces and the "family resemblance" of a home M.I.C.style.On Bush Routes with Pauline I had scarcely been two days in Malawi when I had a wonderful opportunity to make a trip to Zambia with Pauline Brodeur, M.I.C.A long route with tracks of passing traffic in the sand that had raised a reddish cloud of dust, roads leading beyond the boundaries, the roads of the mission of Jesus! Pauline has traveled these bush roads of the Diocese of Mzuzu, Malawi, for twenty years.She knows its secrets, the language and especially the population.I listened to her telling me how difficult it was for her, in 1991, to move to a new diocese in Zambia.Now, she is all set.Thanks to her knowledge of the language and dauntless missionary heart, a whole network of villages benefit from her competence, her unique way of being present and of working with multipliers.All this, so that some day she can go elsewhere leaving behind trustworthy witnesses of the same faith in the God of Jesus Christ and of the very same love that knows no boundaries.Along the way, a special and unexpected moment truly exemplified for me an authentic evangelization approach.I witnessed it first hand - a moment of gratuitousness that invited me to the same gratuitous sharing.At the wheel of the pick-up truck was a Zambian driver.A veteran of village trails, he has become, rain or shine, a technical travel facilitator through often rugged and, at times, impossible terrain.That day, Pauline had arranged for a detour to meet a catechist who had undergone his formation with her.The arrival of the truck was all it took to get this thirty- year- old man out of his house, visibly moved and delighted by the surprise.Pauline was welcomed in the humble dwelling.Their conversation flowed, uninterrupted, from the initial greeting until - so PjjllggljM sifeiiiii llllllü! Zambia - Preparing a trip from Kanyanga.the driver, Sr.Pauline Brodeur (I.), Sr.Denise Duhamel ana Sr.Suzanne Leclair, then Provincial Superior in Malawi / Zambia »7 14 Photo: S.Dupuis, M.I.C. Photo: Malawi iSsïlSi ^HHHH it Malawi - A session in catechetics with Sr.Pauline soon! - it was time to leave.People were mentioned by name: the children who have grown, the disciples who persevere, a friend who had died recently.This sharing was punctuated by nods of understanding and generous handshakes.In twenty minutes, she who initiated the catechist in the faith allowed him to tell how the harvest had ripened and yielded its fruit."You know, the retreat you gave in '89., twenty are now giving it everywhere in the area." At one point, the catechist's voice became assertive, apparently expressing a deep certitude.I turned to Pauline."Do you know what he is saying to me?- Amayi, since 1991, your body is in Zambia, but your heart and soul really stayed with us." And the catechist resumed in earnest to reminisce and tell about the ministry which is everything to him.Through his meeting with Pauline who understood the nuances, who added a word or asked a tiny question, he saw himself pursuing a sacred mission and choosing, step by step, the line to follow in the service of the Gospel.Time has confirmed him in his calling while several obstacles have revealed his fidelity.Pauline can leave now; he has acquired boundless zeal for the Church of Jesus.Unsung Richness The ride afforded me many exotic and touristic detours.Pauline told me about the years when she was learning the language, about the furrows she ploughed with the people in an unsung ministry, the visits when she enjoyed their hospitality - precious moments for learning about the customs, finding out facts and for loving.As I ponder over this journey, my thoughts reach out to continents and generations way back to the time of Mother Délia.Pauline's contribution is unique, of course.Yet I see others, hundreds of them.Berthes, Adelaides, Céciles, Genevièves, Marguerites.to whom those who witnessed their lives can also say after 8, 20, 30, 40 years: "Your body is elsewhere, but your heart and soul are here with us!" ?.% '/«a &.,/, T.Çyffymorial y^jonation To you, parents and friends of a dear departed.Do you with to exprès*) your sympathy in collaboration with a missionary work?Through a memorial donation to our magazine, the MIC MISSION NEWS, you recommend your dear departed to the daily prayers of the Missionary Sisters of the Immaculate Conception and to a share in two masses offered each week in one of our houses around the world.On your behalf, we will send a condolence card to the bereaved family.To you all, our sincere sympathy and our prayers.The Missionary Sisters of the Immaculate Conception I wish to offer a Memorial Donation to the MIC MISSION NEWS in memory of (Name of the Deceased) Please send the condolence card to.- NAME: ADDRESS: CITY: APT: PROV.: POSTAL CODE Thank you for returning this coupon with your donation.Enclosed is my donation of: $20 ?$30 ?$50 ?$100\H Others ?$ _ Receipt: Yes ?NoU Registration Number 090007 - 47 OFFERED BY: ADDRESS: APT: CITY: PROV.: POSTAL CODE: TeL, ( ) Your donation allows you to benefit from a one year subscription to our magazine, the MIC MISSION NEWS I wish to receive it Yes ?/Vo ?MIC MISSION NEWS, P.0.Box 157, Stn Laval-des-Rapides, Laval, Qc Canada H7N 4Z4 Telephone: (514) 663-6460 Fax-.(514) 663-1522 -1 15 IVE US v‘ , 1 ' ¦ I i ïf S&iïfc .^ :: : " WE WEED, , ,+, V *„> • • • f .¦ ¦';" i»» ' * j^gig S' 'Ï A .“ » ¦k * r A r Léontine Lang, M.I.C.From Cloir, Diocese of Edmundston, N.B ' to Zambia in September 1996.Huguette Pigeon, M.I.C.From Laverlochère, Quebec Diocese of Rouyn-Noranda.' to Malawi in September 1996.¦ Yvonne Ayotte, m.i.c.From New Liskeard, Ontario Diocese of Timmins.Returned to Malawi in September 1996.Mibbianatoiei, wtikub YOUR DEPARTURE GIFT HELPS OUR MISSIONARIES Enclosed the amount of $ _ Name: _________ i I Mibbi&H&UaL the (fQbpel $ Qa.mcike, all naiimk! Mt2S:19 Address: Apt.: Code : Tel: Do YOU WANT A TAX RECEIPT Yes ?No ?Address to: MISSION PROCURE MISSIONARY SISTERS OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 121, MAPLEWOOD AVENUE , OUTREMONT, QC CANADA H2V 2M2 Telephone: (514) 274-5691 VUank {jau ifm/i ^xilul&Aiiif Gisèle Lambert, M.I.C.From Quebec, Diocese of Quebec.Returned to Japan in October 1996.18 « sa Huguette Turcohe, nu.C.From Montreal, Archdiocese of Montreal.Left for Hong Kong in October 1996.Carmen Ménard, m.i.c.From Côteau-du-Lac, Diocese of Valleyfield.Returned to Peru in October 1996.5 Pierrette Gagné, M.I.C.From Ste-Luce, Diocese of Rimouski.Returned to Haiti in November 1996.40 99 by Huguette Turcohe, M.I.C.QintfUe Cjeatuxe What is the impact of our actions?No one can tell! A simple gesture of gratitude may sometimes go a long, unexpected way and even make the headlines.Sr.Huguette Turcotte had such an experience while in Western Canada.CANADA bus w-Mawds HosjL the mo Featured in Victoria - Mayor Bob Ross and the recipient of the Hospitality Award, Allan Mawdsley of BC Transit r I veryone of us, at one time or X-V other, does certain things that have unexpectedly far-reaching effects.This happened to me during my stay in British Columbia.The mild climate of this Province has made it a favourite retirement spot for many people from all parts of Canada.Given the high percentage of senior citizens, the transportation services, to mention only these, have been adjusted to meet the needs of this category of people.With my white hair and orthopedic cane, I, too, was granted special attention by the bus drivers, who would willingly lower the step to facilitate my getting in and out of their vehicles.Last April, as I took a bus to go to Victoria, I noticed that the driver waited until I was seated before starting to move.I kept observing him and noted that he did the same for all the elderly passengers: he watched them through the rear view mirror and only took off when the person was safely seated.I was impressed for he did this with courtesy and patience.Then I thought: why not mention this driver's attitude to the Tourist Bureau?I had received on arrival some information material about the city, including a response card inviting visitors to recommend persons whose welcome and services had made their stay in Victoria pleasurable.On reaching my destination, I asked the driver his name, telling him how I had appreciated his courtesy and kindness towards his passengers.And I mailed the card right away.In July, a letter came from the Tourist Bureau of Victoria with the news that my word of appreciation had prompted the city to award the driver the "Hospitality Prize" for the month of April! A few days later, a delegation composed of the Mayor, delegates of the tourist industry, hotel and restaurant owners, journalists and media technicians got aboard Allan's bus to present him with prizes and congratulations.My letter from the Tourist Bureau contained two newspaper articles and photographs of the event.What a pleasant surprise! This gesture of gratitude, of little account in itself, had some unforgettable impact in the life of the bus driver and his family.I draw from this incident a helpful lesson: instead of being critical and of complaining about the lack of kindness of some people, why not make it a point to recall the welcoming gestures of those who are courteous and caring?Other surprises may await us! ?CAycàt&tC’.Two years ago, a friend made me aware of L'Itinéraire (the Itinerary), a Montreal street magazine.To talk or write about poverty is one thing; when street people - the homeless - speak and write about their daily experiences, poverty takes on another aspect.There is hope.when the poor explore means to help one another improve their actual life condition in dignity.In the setting of the International Year to eliminate poverty, proposing the candidacy of the magazine for its texts on the'Church and poverty" (August 1996 issue), obtained for it an award from the Canadian Association of Catholic Periodicals during the Association's annual congress held last October.?Micheline Marcoux, M.I.C.Awarding of the ACPC Prize to Serge Lareault (2nd, r.) editor of L'Itinéraire and to Gabriel, (Is1,1.) magazine vendor Photo: Y.Deschênes 19 MADAGASCAR i Among the benefactors for the construction of the Centre d'éducation permanente pour adultes in Antananarivo: the embassies of the United States, France, Germany and Japan In front of the newly-constructed CEPA building: Sr.Estelle Fontaine (2nd, I.) and CEPA team members welcome Jeannine Bombardier of the Bombardier Foundation and her husband.7/ TromtIUlltioil with the eople by Estelle Fontaine, M.I.C.When Madagascar is mentioned in the media today, the focus is too often on the prevalent poverty situation.Sr.Estelle Fontaine, who has worked among the Malagasy people for many years, goes beyond clichés and reflects on the cultural causes - the strengths and the weaknesses - of how this country works.Her analysis, coloured by her skill in psychology, brings her to get involved in projects that call upon the people to take responsibility for themselves.In 1990, Sr.Estelle participates in the setting up of the Centre d'éducation permanente des adultes (CEPA - Adult Education Center) in Antananarivo.She works there as technical adviser.n ow can one find the right J.J.balance between "affective bonding", so valuable to Malagasy ethnic groups, and the "rational autonomy of consciousness" which is essential for economic development, one of the conditions of the survival of a people?How is it possible, also, to build bridges between people with a higher level of awareness and those without a voice?To be conscious of such dilemma, to reflect on them and to take adequate action is, in part, the aim of our quest and of our commitment on behalf of the Malagasy people.A Brief Analysis of Possible Causes Missionaries and other educators have long been devoted to the education of children and youth in Madagascar.Nevertheless, adults are being confronted by 20 rapid change, by the impact of the ideological and economic revolution taking place in Madagascar as well as worldwide, by the questions that arise from the country's cultural heritage and from some practical problems inherent in Madagascar's maturing culture.In Madagascar as elsewhere, growth takes time.It is not easy to move from a group identity to personal identity because of industrialization, commercialism, urbanization and monetarism.Thus individuals eager to acquire their personal autonomy right away find themselves immersed in a population - despite all its inherent riches - sustained in a mentality of dependence, of fears revived by taboos, the defense of the race and of the ethnic tribe.It happens too that leaders or others, getting involved in inappropriate systems of government, oftentimes lapse into self-centered behaviour to the detriment of public survival.A good number of Madagascans, while coming to realize that their human and natural resources are such as to make possible the establishment of a prosperous economy, are aware of the spirit of dependence instilled into them by their family upbringing, of their dependence on their ethnic group and of their strong fear of rejection.(.) This is the kind of thinking behind such reflections as: "On one hand, Malagasy people claim to be ready to join the international market; on the other hand, they expect the rest of the world to take into account their particular racial, ethnic and cultural traits." According to a survey reported in the October 1995 issue of Exportations Québec, the GNP Photos: CEPA decreased by 40% under the Socialist-Marxist regime, the land acreage suitable for cultivation was reduced by half and agricultural productivity was cut down to a mere seventh of what it had been.A Project Rooted in the People's Concrete Situation Aware of the issues upon which their future depends, some Madagascans strive to find solutions to improve their situation.This is the purpose of the Centre d'éducation permanente des adultes in which I participate.To date, around sixty members are asking questions and developing awareness concerning the relevance of the kind of education that is given in relation to the country's future.At a time when everyone struggles for his or her own survival, to pursue this undertaking is a challenge for all of us.Among the members of the Centre are young professional people: teachers, physicians, computer scientists, project directors, people in public office, consultants, businessmen, etc.Training is given in various areas: interpersonal communication, discernment, personal, cultural, ec-clesial, spiritual and Training of animators in communication Communication in the family leadership identity, affectivity, learning how to make a choice, mid-life crisis, integration of personality, rereading of various lived experiences, goal setting, forgiveness, etc.We are planning on courses in helping relationship, bereavement, suicide prevention and spiritual accompaniment in everyday life.A number of Madagascan facilitators go to various places throughout the island to give sessions on interpersonal communication.They are well received and invited to return.At each of our general assemblies, a CEPA member gives a lecture according to his or her expertise.What a potential is thus put to contribution! Four members are also preparing to broadcast these lectures on the Salesian Fathers' Radio network.The CEPA library has approximately 3,000 books on family, business and other concerns: spirituality, health, education at all ages, management, sales techniques and social intervention, human behaviour and various psychological approaches (resources mm.im :vA rarely found in Madagascar).Books such as Parents efficaces (Effective Parenting) and Les difficultés de votre enfant (The Problems of your Child), having proved most helpful and appreciated, have been translated in Malagasy for the benefit of the generations of the 80's and 90's that went through the process of adopting Malagasy as the language of the schools.The Centre d'éducation permanente des adultes has been recognized by the Malagasy government since 1990.We owe the construction of this new Centre to the Bombardier Foundation of Valcourt, Quebec, to friends who are collaborating with us and to the assistance of four embassies: the United States, France, Germany and Japan.Without these indispensable partners, what could we have done?Let us thank the Lord together for their generous participation.Reaching out through Various Channels Besides giving psychological guidance, I have been teaching classes to the seminarians in Antsirabe for ten years.Their team of Malagasy educators has a remarkable fraternal spirit.In addition to CEPA and the Seminary, there are other groups that nourish my enthusiasm and missionary commitment, among them, the students of the Institut catholique de pédagogie, the men and women religious formation directors and various groups of lay people.For me, to work at the upbuilding of God's Kingdom, a kingdom of love and justice, means to discover together that God has created all men and women to be free as children of God.The day when nations, races and individuals will live by this freedom, we shall be able to meet the challenges of our cultures, be they too traditional or too modern, too dependent or too independent.In the meantime, the members of CEPA in Antananarivo are committed to this struggle for the development of true freedom, a struggle which already brings us peace and joy.?21 WOÜD AND LIFE discovering thejiidden Gift by Christian Beaulieu For the second year, Fr.Christian Beaulieu journeys with us.This fiery communicator opens for us paths of hope, through Word and Life This time, he invites us to reflect on why we do what we do, on our desire to communicate the best of who we are and to discover the gift hidden in every situation.He presents to us the apostle Peter as an eloquent witness of a person whose life has been transformed by the Spirit.You May Be Wondering If.You may be wondering these days if you are still in the right place, if there is "room for you under the sun", if it is still worth going on, in spite of all, through the hardships of life.You may be wondering if you are meant to write, to compose, to sing, to communicate.If the most important things you have to say to your loved ones and to the future generations will ever be heard.There is only one way to answer your questions.What is it?Look for the need that keeps you steering in this direction, going on despite winds and tides and getting started again every morning.In the dead of night, when you feel no more desire for anything, ask yourself these vital questions: "Am I really driven to this project by an inner urge to do it?Can I help doing it?Is there any way I could do otherwise?" Would something vital be smothered within you - a fire, an energy, an explosion of life -were you prevented from carrying it out?Would something be snuffed out and die in you were you forbidden to realize this project?.Search the depths of your being for your deepest answer.If you can face such serious questions with a strong and simple "I must", "I have no choice"," I can't help it"., then continue building your life on this need.The gift of your very best and your identity depend on it! This is where happiness lies for you! Therefore, go back to it! This is how builders of new projects - houses, churches, innovative programmes, job creation - have been driven to build, writers to write, communicators to communicate, founders to found, evangelizers to evangelize, young lovers to get married, men and women to light fires of hope everywhere they go.Now ask yourself: Do I really have something to transmit?What is it?What is the central message which I would not want, for anything in the world, those I am in touch with to miss?Filled with Sweet Wine Peter on the day of Pentecost is the perfect illustration of the top notch communicator the Spirit made out of him that day.(Acts 2:14 36).Peter, the fearful one, the shy one, the quitter, expressed himself with incredible force.Peter stood up with the Eleven and addressed them in a loud voice.And the whole city heard him! And hearing his word and sensing the fervour of his expression, all were touched to the heart, profoundly moved! Three thousand joined the first Christian community that day.Quite an achievement! He stood up.In a loud voice.Filled with sweet wine.Like a pressure cooker ready to explode.Like a bottle of champagne about to pop open.Like a volcano on the verge of erupting.Where could the source of such energy and radiance spring from?What a strength emanated from him, what assurance! Yet he had come a very long way.He had cut off the ear of a soldier, which had not quenched his thirst for vengeance.A few hours before, he had locked himself between four walls out of fear.A few days before, he still coveted the podium of glory.A few weeks before, he had fallen and betrayed in a grand manner.A few months before, he had been desperate.What was it that made such a difference now?22 How had he arrived at this point?Who was this man who expressed himself with such fire, such strength, and was so totally taken up by what he did and said?Where did he get his inspiration, his strength?What made him such an outstanding communicator?With such an impact! Like a crash of thunder, a bolt of lightning in people's lives.What is Required of a Communicator?First of Ali, to Have Been There.Only those who have walked the same path are credible and equipped to lead their peers toward the promised land of their love and toward new horizons.How could they guide others to new horizons if they had not themselves faced the winds and storms that drive us there?What strength, what energy, what appeal those communicators possess who have gone through this journey before us and who inspire and draw us to follow after them! Perhaps in your treasure hunt you come up against major obstacles.But these obstacles are not mere stones obtructing the road ahead; they are diamonds for you to polish and purify that they may give you their utmost brillance.Then, to Discover the Gift Hidden in Each Situahon.When Mariette accompanied her husband Roger on the narrow path, the mandatory passage that led him from this life to the other Life,.staying at his bedside twenty-four hours a day, for months on end, watching for the least sign of light from beyond to shine in his eyes, she had a foreknowledge of the hidden gift buried in death.She knew that in every grave there are sparks of life, promises of resurrection.She looked for the life hidden in each situation.Are we ready to set all the wheels in motion to find this hidden gift?Are we prepared to pay the price?Are we willing to "stand on guard" and watch for the sparks of life and light buried in each grave?You perhaps fear the autumn frost that always comes too early and might spoil the fragile fruits of your loves.But remember that the grapes that yield the best wine are those picked after a severe frost.To Bring Out of It a Positive Aspect At the very heart of the unhappy situation you are going through is a piece of good news for you.Your life can be changed, your problem can be considered from a different angle, you have misjudged your situation.Do not attempt to change your harness to haul yourself out of the impasse where you find yourself.This difficulty on your way, this seemingly insurmountable obstacle is the best harness there is for you to advance.Provided you allow it to do its job: this is precisely what helps you to make headway.Is this not a major cause for joy? WAm FOR THF YEAR 2000 In the preparatory phase for the year 2000, 1997 is centered on the person of Jesus Christ.The theme proposed: Jeéiié Christ, only Saviour of the world, yesterday, today and forever.(c[ He 13:8) John Paul II, Tertio Millennio Adveniente, n" -10 Like the disciples, let us say to Jesus: Lord, teaeh us to pray.When you pray, say: Our Father.(Lk 11:2) * 24 Photos: MIC J*1' Lord, I would like to meditate tonight on the prayer which You taught us, the Our Father.I have often meditated on it and I shall do so once again, asking You simply: "Teach us how to pray".On the walls of the humble Monastery of Carmel du Pater, on the Mount of Olives, this prayer is printed in some sixty languages, carved in the stone of the old outside walls of the monastery so that it may be seen and read from generation to generation.It should be inscribed in material other than stone, because characters carved in stone do not resist the erosion of our industrial civilization.They wear away in time.The words You have carved in our hearts endure.What could they conceal that they should live on in people's hearts?They hold the prayer of the One who wept in Bethany, who feasted in Cana, who denounced wrongdoing in the Temple, who healed the sick, comforted widows, forgave Mary Magdalen.and who, in the silence of the night, prayed to His Father.It is the prayer that rises from the clamour of the crowds, from the tiredness felt after a day's work or a day looking for work, the prayer of the one afflicted with AIDS or cancer, the prayer of a simple elderly person.It is not the padded prayer mat safely shelters from the world the one who says it; it is the prayer of one who lives in the midst of the world.It is the prayer which can be compared to a huge wave of the sea heaving toward Heaven the three wishes every creature sends to the Father: Hallowed be Thy Name, Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, that falls and crashes on the shore to express the needs of all Your creatures, our needs: Give each one of us our daily bread, Forgive us, Deliver us.This is what You taught us to say again and again each day.Let us not forget to end it with Amen.Amen because we know for sure that all things are in the Father's hands all our moments of light, all our moments of distress and that your Kingdom will surely come at last.The Pater begins with an act of self-surrender, the self-surrender of Maiy who answered to a request which she understood not: FIAT and it ends with an act of trust renewed on the Cross: Father, Thy will be done.?Pierre Gouin, S.J., October 1994 Written in the wake of the Hebron Mosque massacre (Israel) Prayer inspired by the meditations of Leonardo Boll.25 Sr.Marie-Cléona Robitaille (Sainte-Justine) The long earthly journey of Sr.Marie-Cléona began on August 31, 1901 in Lowell, Massachusetts, United States.In 1912, her parents and family of eleven children settled in St-Mathieu, Diocese of Trois-Rivières, where Cléona first attended school before pursuing her studies in Shawinigan and then in Trois-Rivières.At 23, she entered the novitiate of Pont-Yiau and made her first profession of vows on February 11, 1928.In September of the same year she was named for Kagoshima, Japan and later for Wakamatsu.In 1943, Cléona had to leave Japan because of the war but she returned in 1949 for another 15 years.She always gave her very best to her tasks, particularly that of cooking and sewing.She visited families and was always ready to help her companions in their apostolic activities.Having returned to Quebec, she extended precious help to our M.I.C.Sisters of Outremont, Pont-Viau, Joliette and Trois-Rivières.Though completely deaf, her exceptional quality of presence was, indeed, "a reflection of God's love for each one of said one of her companions.In 1987, having then retired at Pont-Yiau, she had a serious fall and had to enter the infirmary.Paralysis soon completely disabled her, but she remained sound in mind.A long silent self-offering day after day, until her demise on May 21, 1996, at the age of 95 years.?Armandine Gauthier, M.I.C.Sr.Jeanne Bédard (Saint-Roch) Sr.Jeanne was bom on July 9, 1906, in the Parish of Saint Roch in Quebec City, where she grew up and pursued her studies.She entered the M.I.C.Novitiate at 21.Shortly after her profession, she was assigned to the printing services at our Mother House, where her sense of responsibility, her constant concern for work well done and her congeniality were greatly appreciated.In 1947, her missionary ideal was fulfilled as she left for Haiti.After teaching in a primary school for seven years, she was assigned to work at La Charité S.V.P., a home for the elderly, the sick and the handicapped.Sparing neither her efforts nor her time, she devoted herself totally to the welfare of the sick and poor who appreciated her love and concern.Having returned to Quebec in 1981, Sister Jeanne took every opportunity to extend help in various ways inasmuch as her health allowed.It was not easy for this energetic woman to accept her limits, but she maintained a realistic and positive attitude as she spent the last stage of her life in Verchères.Though in pain, she made this a time of interiority, contemplation and thanksgiving, praying the Rosary and spending long periods of time before the Blessed Sacrament.On May 23, 1996, her illness having reached its peak, she was taken to the Hôtel-Dieu Hospital of Montreal.She died the following day, ready to meet the Lord and to contemplate Him forever.?Reina Martel, M.I.C. Sr.Marguerite Demers (Saint-Louis-de-France) Marguerite, the tenth of sixteen children, was bom in St-Sauveur, Quebec City, on the 22nd of March, 1908.At 22, she entered the Novitiate of the Missionary Sisters of the Immaculate Conception.Enriched by a vast experience in the working world and accustomed to a variety of tasks, she used her many talents for the service of the Community with a generosity of heart that never failed.Her simplicity, joy and spirit of thanksgiving made her a delightful companion.Her ever ardent desire was "to be the little drop of water in the wine", as in the Offertory of each day's Mass.She came to Pont-Yiau in 1987, where she was happy to stay until the time of the great Call.She departed from our midst for the eternal praise on May 25, 1996.Even if her field of apostolate was limited to our M.I.C.houses in Canada - Quebec City, Vancouver and New Bmnswick -Sister Marguerite was a great missionary, constantly alert to the word of God and to the many needs of her brothers and sisters.She was really an important "little drop of water", for she served most generously with humility and love.?Fabienne Bematchez, M.I.C.Sr.Thérèse Dufresne (Saint-Pierre-aux-Liens) Bom in St-Cuthbert on dime 3rd, 1905, Sr.Thérèse went to live in Shawinigan in 1912.Her parents instilled in her the sense of Christian virtue, gratitude, responsibility and service of others.After finishing her studies at the Ursuline convent, she taught music for a few years.Drawn by the call to missionary religious life, she decided at age 23 to join the Missionary Sisters of the Immaculate Conception.After her profession, she worked devotedly at our houses of Quebec, mostly at the Mother House.She was assigned to the music department, to the teaching of typing, to the Office of the Holy Childhood and to various internal community services.She had the joy of going to Haiti, where her talents were appreciated at the École Normale of Cap Haïtien.Due to sickness, she was forced to return to her homeland after two years of service in Haiti.Despite several bouts of illness which punctuated her long life, Sister Thérèse always remained a hard worker with a vibrant missionary spirit.She entertained a continuous correspondence with the M.I.C.Sisters in far-away missions and maintained an affectionate presence to her family.Most of all, she constantly reached out to the whole world through her prayer and through the offering of her handicaps, the "coins of her apostolate", as she would say.Eager to remain young at heart and "marveling more and more each day at the love and goodness of the Lord", she wanted to be a "missionary in thanksgiving" to the very end.On May 26, 1996, almost 91 years old, she was received by the Lord for the eternal thanksgiving.?Georgette Barrette, M.I.C.Sr.Jeanne d'Arc Michaud (Jeame-de-Domrémy) Born in St-André-de-Kamouraska on March 8, 1910, Sr.Jeanne received from her parents a sound Christian education and drew from her father's home the values that shaped her endearing personality.At 23, she entered the Institute of the Missionary Sisters of the Immaculate Conception.She devoted herself for many years, in Montreal and in Rimouski; to the spreading of our magazine LE PRECURSEUR and to missionary7 promotion in the schools.She was then appointed to a service of authority and as bursar in our houses.However, the work that marked her life more than any other seems to have been that of closed retreats.She devoted herself to this work with great dedication for fourteen years.Wherever she went, she left the memory7 of a most charitable person, thoughtful and joyful, a reflection and testimony of a Presence which conquers all hearts.In 1973, she was assigned to Pont-Viau where she worked in the archives and for our missionary magazines, performing her tasks with great care.Retired at the Délia-Tétreault Pavilion in 1993, she accepted in faith the detachments required by her illness.On her last Christmas, aware of her approaching death, she presented her violin to the director of the Petits Violons de Laval for a young artist.Her earthly pilgrimage was nearing the end.She handed her soul over to God on May 31st, 1996, at the age of 86, having lived 63 years in the religious life.Now, in the presence of her God, she sings with Mary an eternal Magnificat.?Jeanne Guinois, M.I.C.27 Intermissions / 1 NEWSBRIEFS.HERE AND ELSEWHERE PHILIPPINES Farewells to a Home-Away-From-Home After arriving in Davao City in 1952, the M.I.C.Sisters undertook diverse ministries, among which was a Student Center.In 1955, the Center became the Our Lady of Good Counsel Dormitory.Here, young women, mostly college students from nearby provinces, found a home-away-from-home.Annie Lou, a B.S.Accounting student, expresses deep appreciation for her stay in this dormitory.During forty-four years, the Center - Our Lady of Good Counsel Dormitory - has been a haven for students.Young residents like me experienced the warmth of a homey atmosphere in a comfortable and safe place, conducive to learning and development of spiritual and moral values.This year, all 100 of us residents are obliged to bid farewell to one another, to the M.I.C.Sisters and to the dormitory itself.for a colony of termites have also settled in and have made the building unsafe for occupancy.A good part of who I am today is a reflection of what the M.I.C.Sisters have imparted to me.During my three-year stay at this residence, I have been enriched with Christian values to help me face the world with strength and courage.The Sisters have taught me self-discipline and have encouraged my active participation in various group activities and liturgical celebrations.I have learned to manage my time, especially regarding my studies.In many ways, I have become more independent and responsible.One of my greatest joys was to meet good friends whose friendship I will ever treasure.For me, the dormitory was not just a building where I returned at night and where I woke every morning, ready to face a new day.but a place where I learnt very valuable lessons to keep and bring with me wherever I might go.To Sr.Nicolasita Villarin, our directress, and to all the M.I.C.Sisters who have touched my life and that of my companions, I wish to express my deep gratitude for the love, patience, understanding and dedication they have extended to us.I wish that each one of us may find the same happiness and contentment that filled our life together in this house.It is difficult to say goodbye without the assurance of seeing each other again, but such is life and we have to move on.?Annie Lou Quilala MALAWI When Christian Students Meet The Young Christian Students (Y.C.S.), a youth movement in Malawian schools, consists of young people who commit themselves to spread Christ's message of love in their own milieu.Doris Twyman, M.I.C., coordinator of all Youth Movements in Mzuzu Diocese, shares with us the outcome of the organization's annual gathering, as reported by three Y.C.S.members."It is well in my soul if I put Jesus in my life." This verse of a song was often repeated with great enthusiasm during a three-day gathering held at Marymount School in Mzuzu.About 110 Y.C.S.members from different schools throughout Mzuzu Diocese, participated in this annual meeting.During two days, sessions were given by Participants at the I AA 1 * Ai YCS Annual Meeting, Mzuzu \iOJt WmgmmàWé H 5Î1 mm Nicolasita Villarin, M.I.C.and residents of Our Lady of Good Counsel Dormitory, Davao City HHHHI ÏW V. ' the Training for Transformation Team.The team led us to reflect on the importance of trust and mutual acceptance in a sharing group.We were invited to reflect on the events and the situations in our respective schools and villages, as well as in Malawian society, so as to find the root causes of our problems and adopt relevant actions.On the third day, we looked at new ways of introducing to the students in our respective schools some facts on which to reflect.We then studied a paper on "How to Run a Group Discussion" and tried to put it into practice by using the process of See, Judge, Act on a very relevant topic: What does freedom mean to a student?Our sincere gratitude to Bishop J.M.Zuza of Mzuzu who took time to greet us and show his concern, particularly regarding the problems faced by our generation today: drugs, abuse of sex and of freedom.We felt challenged and ready to rally to his invitation to be light and salt to our fellow-students.Indeed, this annual gathering greatly contributed to ever keep the fire burning in our hearts! ?Yohane, Daniel and Scholastica -Y.C.S.Members Sr.Berthe Surprenant with the personnel at the Infirmary of Pont-Viau Photos: M.Boulé MISSIONARY INTENTIONS JANUARY 1997 Christ Jesus, you died to save all humanity.Give strength to the baptized to witness to your saving death by their lives.FEBRUARY 1997 Crucified Lord, teach the sick and the elderly to unite their sufferings with yours and to offer them for the Universal Church.Mr.Serge Ménard, Minister for Greater Montreal, greets the jubilarian.CANADA V Another M.I.C.Centenarian One hundred years indeed mark a rare occasion well worth celebrating! On September 16, 1996, the chapel and big hall in Pont-Viau put on a festive look, highlighting the 100th birthday of our dear Sister Berthe Surprenant, our second centenarian! Radiantly happy, Sr.Berthe welcomed members of her family, numerous friends and distinguished guests who came to celebrate this memorable day with her.The Eucharist was concelebrated by Bishop Gérard Tremblay, former episcopal vicar of the Laval Region, with P.M.E.Fathers Fernand Gaudry and André Pigeon.Sr.Évangéline Plamondon, M.I.C., Superior General, opened the celebration with warm wishes and expressions of gratitude to the birthday celebrant.Other special messages followed after the Mass.Mr.Serge Ménard, deputy of Laval and Minister for Greater Montreal, proposed a toast for the honoree of the day.He offered congratulatory wishes in his name and in behalf of Quebec's Prime Minister Lucien Bouchard, whose greeting he read to Sr.Berthe.On his part, the City Councillor Georges Gauthier, representing the Mayor of Laval, extended to Sr.Berthe the Mayor's greetings.Through our Provincial and M.I.C.local authorities, Sr.Berthe received the apostolic blessing of His Holiness, Pope John Paul II and the congratulations of Mr.Jean Chrétien, Prime Minister of Canada.Sr.Berthe spent nine years as a nurse in Africa.Fond memories of mission days recalled with her and a faxed message expressing the loving wishes of the Sisters of the Province of Africa added to the special joys of the celebration.To mark this red-letter day, a souvenir scroll was given to everyone present.On one side of the scroll was printed the beautiful love story of Sr.Berthe; on the reverse side, her photo.The guests and all of Sr.Berthe's family members in particular were delighted over such a beautiful feast with their beloved aunt, now a centenarian! * ?M.I.C.Information, 1996 Editor's Note: At the time of finalizing this issue, we learned of Sr.Berthe's demise on October 31, 1996.29 I mterActiom J Hello! With the coming of the New Year, InterAction brings you a lot of new ideas! We suggest some interesting activities which will give you a chance to reflect and discuss with your club, your school group and even your family.It will be a good way to improve your communication skills.Let's keep in touch all through the year 1997! AN AWARD OR A LEMON In face of the media, do you juot TAKE EVERYTHING IN or do you look at it with a CRITICAL MIND ?To learn how to see things with a critical mind, here are two activities to choose from with your group.Make some changes to them to suit your own milieu.You are members of a Selection Committee and you must give an AWARD ora LEMON.Materials needed: Five or six videoclips A VCR and a TV set Pop corn Instructions: Sit comfortably and watch the video clips.Each has a copy of the "Award or Lemon" evaluation sheet.If you do this activity on your lunch hour, use fewer clips.After each video clip, take a moment to answer the short questionnaire privately.When you have watched all the video clips, let all the members share the reactions they wrote on the questionnaire.Finally, take a vote for the Award or for the Lemon.Suggestions: After the activity, write a letter to a television station that shows video clips and/or to your school or local newspaper to let them know the result of the vote.Tell them who you are and explain briefly why this or that video clip was given the Lemon or the Award * CALA OF MEDIA AWARDS Have you ever watched the EMMY awards, the GEMINI awards, the OSCAR awards.or any other such gala on television?The award winners are chosen by a jury and given trophies or plaques.There are several nominees and the choice is made accord'mq to specific criteria.Why not organize a Gala of Media Awards among yourselves (selecting newspapers, magazines, television shows, videos, video clips, radio programmes.)?Selection criteria: Promotion of peace or use of violence.An AWARD for Peace, A LEMON for Violence.* Adaptation and publication authorized - Répertoire d'activités des Clubs Mond-Ami, Service national Mond-Ami, Montréal.j" ^ ^ ^ ^ IjAADj t WBy ^ l'k h ‘ ?me55age do you think the artist is trying to convey through this song?! ?What do you think of this message?_________________________________ | What do you think it deserves: AWARD or a LEMON?Indicate the prize you picked for it.I I_________________________________________________________________________ 30 To contact the Missionary Sisters of the Immaculate Conception, here are a few addresses: CANADA The Generalate and Mission Procure 121 Maplewood Avenue Outremont, Qc Canada H2V2M2 Tel.: (514) 274-5691 Missionary Animation Center 314, St.Catherine Road Outremont, Qc Canada H2V2B4 Tel.: (514)495-1551 Office of the Délia Tétreault Cause 100 Place Juge Desnoyers Pont-Viau, Laval, Qc Canada H7G1A4 Tel.: (514)663-6460 AFRICA Provincial House P.O.Box 47, Mzimba Malawi, Central Africa CUBA Calle 146, N°904-Entre9y11 Mariano 16, Ciudad de la Habana Cuba, 12100 HAITI Maison Provinciale (Delmas) C.P.1085, Port-au-Prince Haïti, Les Antilles HONG KONG Provincial House Good Hope Convent 381, Jat's Incline Kowloon, Hong Kong JAPAN Provincial House 8-13-16 Fukazawa, Setagaya Ku Tokyo 158, Japan MADAGASCAR Maison Provinciale Lot 11 -J-4 bis, Ivandry Antananarivo, Madagascar 101 PHILIPPINES Provincial House P.O.Box 468, 1502 Greenhills Metro Manila, Philippines SOUTH AMERICA Casa Provincial Francisco de Orellana 338 Lima 5 Peru, América del Sur TAIWAN Provincial House 30, Lane 148, Fu Hsing South Road, Section 2 Taipei 106, Taiwan, R.O.C.IN COMMUNICATION WITH OUR WOOD IN COMMUNION I wmom Mmamm f 1 ^ ' V : ^ ! 'w * MIC Mission News ’m.t " EJh ti ¦ t THE MISSIONARY >0 m&Mim Bilk, in mnwu Wsk rare.^Æ& .:i mWt, Ü 'v v£ a, H v s.'téf* \ WMOMI FAMILY BMpJ | j Hi iÿËL^'.GIFT SUBSCRIPTION: NAME: ADDRESS: APT.POSTAL CODE: TEL: A personalized card will be sent in your name.OFFERED BY : NAME: ADDRESS: APP.: POSTAL CODE: TEL: PRAYER INTENTIONS: TWO MASSES ARE OFFERED EACH WEEK FOR YOUR INTENTIONS, FOR YOUR FAMILY AND FOR YOUR DEAR DEPARTED.HU $ 8 (1 year) (1 year) C] $ 10 Support EH $ 15 (2 years) (2 years) EH $ 20 Support EH $ 23 (3 years) (3 years) EH $ 30 Support EH $ 15 USA AND OTHER COUNTRIES (1 YEAR) MIC Mission News, P.O.Box 157, Stn Laval-des-Rapides, Laval, Qc Canada H7N 4Z4 TO HELP SUPPORT OUR MAGAZINE: ?DONATION: ___________________________ Receipt: Yes ?No ?N.B.Tax receipts issued for donations only, NOT FOR SUBSCRIPTION 31 Photo: H.Turcotte, m.i.c. PUBLICATION OF THE MISSIONARY SISTERS OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION MAILING ADDRESS: MIC Mission News P.O.BOX 157 SIN LAVAL-DES-RAPIDES LAVAL, QC CANADA H7N 4Z4 i- 1 ________________________ _ Please send us your new address.Thank you! i i-1 YOU ARE MOVING?The expiration date of your subscription appears above your address.We wish to remind you to renew your subcription two months before the expiration date.Please write your subscription number on ail correspondence.3* V 7 ¦ ta*; Warn .M-.-t' .: Rwandan refugee camp in Zaire - Thanks to humanitarian projects centered on the "reconstruction of the person", seeds of life are sown .Photo: M.-P.Girard, S.S.C.M.Nurturing Hope This is what we are about: We plant seeds that one day will grow.We water seeds already planted, knowing that they hold future promise.We lay foundations that will need further development.We provide yeast that produces effects beyond our capabilities.We cannot do everything, and there is a sense of liberation in realizing that.This enables us to do something, and to do it very well.It may be incomplete but it is a beginning, a step along the way, an opportunity for God s grace to enter and do the rest.Oscar Romero (The Communicator, ARCCC, June 1996) Are you interested in the religious or lay missionary life?Do YOU WISH TO DISCERN THE LORD'S CALL WITHIN YOU?Contact the Missionary Sisters of the Immaculate Conception.Printed in Canada